Tsunami warning tests today

Published 3:51 pm Wednesday, March 19, 2014

A tsunami warning communications test for the All Hazard Alert Broadcast sirens will take place at 10:15 a.m. today, Wednesday, Sept. 15, according to Clallam County Sheriff Bill Benedict.

The test will be conducted in 40 coastal locations in Clallam, Jefferson, Grays Harbor and Pacific counties. The tsunami warning sirens play a 30-second wail sound rather than the chimes normally used. The routine monthly test uses the chime tone for just 10 seconds.

Clallam County Emergency Management officials are encouraging individuals, families, local businesses and public facilities to use the 30-second siren test as a reminder to look around their surroundings and assess what possibly could cause injuries or damage if the ground were to shake for half a minute.

It is also an opportunity to review emergency plans for a disaster and to make sure you have what you need to survive the first 72 hours of any natural or man-made emergency.

Preparedness information and materials are available by contacting Clallam County Emergency Management at 417-2525.